HC Deb 29 October 1986 vol 103 c172W
39. Mr. Ashdown

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement concerning Her Majesty's Government's relations with Nicaragua.

Mr. Eggar

We want to see a genuinely democratic Nicaragua living in peace with her neighbours. Our future relations will depend on Nicaragua ending the arms buildup and subversion which alarms its neighbours, and making progress towards democracy.

46. Mr. Tom Clarke

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he next expects to seek to visit Nicaragua.

Mr. Eggar

My right hon. and learned Friend has no plans to visit Nicaragua.

49. Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the latest situation in Nicaragua.

Mr. Eggar

During recent months harassment of the Opposition and other dissenting opinion has increased following the tightening of the state of emergency in June. We regret the closure of the only independent newspaper,La Prensa, and the expulsion of two church leaders from Nicaragua. These actions appear to be in direct conflict with some of the basic objectives of Contadora.